After trading Zach LaVine, at least publicly, the plan was for the Chicago Bulls not to tank for a high draft pick but to compete to make the Play-In at the end of the regular season.
The Bulls didn’t appear to be legitimately trying to win on Tuesday night when the Detroit Pistons blew them out 132-92 in front of 18,321 fans at the United Center on Tuesday night.
The Bills trailed 71-29 at halftime.
The offensive effort was better for Chicago in the second half, but the team didn’t look competitive on defense.
Billy Donovan was embarrassed by the Chicago Bulls effort
![NBA: Chicago Bulls at Los Angeles Clippers Chicago Bulls](https://www.chicitysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/USATSI_25235184-894x600.jpg)
Following the game, head coach Billy Donovan responded in two words to the Bulls’ effort, per K.C. Johnson of CHSN.
“It’s embarrassing,” Donovan said.
Via Johnson:
“Donovan burned early timeouts in both halves and just said he did so because he felt the Pistons physically overwhelmed the Bulls.”
Billy Donovan: “It’s embarrassing.”
Donovan burned early timeouts in both halves and just said he did so because he felt the Pistons physically overwhelmed the Bulls
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) February 12, 2025
Nikola Vucevic takes the blame
![NBA: Miami Heat at Chicago Bulls NBA: Miami Heat at Chicago Bulls](https://www.chicitysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/USATSI_25341148_168410494_lowres-900x600.jpg)
Per Johnson, Nikola Vucevic shouldered the blame for Tuesday night.
“It honestly started with me,” Vucevic said. “As oldest guy on team and leader, I didn’t bring the physicality and approach I needed to. I have to be better.”
Vucevic recorded eight points, three rebounds, 1 assist, and one block in the loss.
Chicago will play Detroit again on Wednesday night. Per ESPN BET, the Bulls are 6.5-point underdogs to the Pistons.
![NBA: Detroit Pistons at Chicago Bulls NBA: Detroit Pistons at Chicago Bulls](https://www.chicitysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/USATSI_25392368-900x600.jpg)
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